Financial stress hinders communication among couples, study finds

When it comes to relationships, communication is key. But while ‘money talks’, money-related talks can often fall silent amid financial duress, particularly among couples. A new US-based research has found that heightened financial stress significantly reduces the likelihood of couples engaging in conversations about money.

The researchers employed a combination of real-world correlational data and experimental findings to underscore the impact of financial stress on communication dynamics within relationships. Their investigation pinpointed financial stress as a critical barrier that inhibits open dialogue between partners regarding financial issues.

Defined by feelings of financial overwhelm, challenges in meeting financial obligations, and persistent worries about money management, financial stress was found to affect a substantial 70% of Americans. Notably, even individuals with secure financial standings experience this form of anxiety.

This stress not only triggers conflicts, but also depletes cognitive resources, making it difficult for individuals to engage constructively with their partners on financial matters.

Amid such stressful circumstances, many couples resort to avoidance as a coping mechanism to preempt potential conflicts. This avoidance is rooted in the anticipation that discussing financial issues will inevitably lead to disputes. Crucially, the study highlights that this avoidance is driven by a belief that financial conflicts are perpetual and unsolvable.

To validate their findings, the researchers analysed extensive national survey data from thousands of participants. Both data sets confirmed a clear inverse relationship: higher levels of financial stress correlate with reduced communication between partners about finances. Furthermore, a pilot study indicated that individuals anticipate more significant conflicts when discussing financial stressors compared to other common stressors, such as work-related issues.

Given these results, the study highlights a clear solution for couples: recognise how financial stress affects your communication. Doing so can not only strengthen relationships, but also help improve the financial situation. Changing how couples view financial disagreements could also help them communicate better and have healthier relationships overall, the study adds.

“When individuals view financial conflicts as an issue they can solve as a team, rather than as a lasting perpetual disagreement, they are more willing to initiate conversations about money with their partners,” said study co-author, Suzanne Shu. “This finding highlights the importance of reframing how couples approach financial discussions to foster healthier communication patterns.”

The paper was recently published in the Journal of Consumer Psychology and can be accessed here.